YOUR GUIDE TO SCRUBBING UP FOR THAT NEXT BLACK TIE EVENT

You’ve just received an invitation in the mail.. Dress Code: Black Tie. You start to feel a little anxious, what does this dress code actually mean and how can you ensure that you stand out on the night (for all the right reasons)?!

Read on below for your top 5 tips, Ladies and Gents, to ensure you’re looking and feeling mighty fine for your next big occasion..

GENTS

INVEST IN QUALITY: A black tux is timeless, it will never date. The same goes for your shirt. Our suggestion, invest in quality like Dom Bagnato’s Peak Lapel Tuxedo and Tuxedo Shirt, because 5 – 10 years down the track, it will still be just as sharp as when you first purchased it.

STICK TO TRADITION, BUT ADD FLARE WITH ACCESSORIES: The Black Tie dress code is there for a reason, so don’t sway too far from the tradition. We recommend adding your own individual flare through accessories. A velvet, silk or oversized Bow Tie, a white silk Pocket Square, statement Cuff Links and a classic Timepiece are additions that will set you apart from the pack. We suggest Dom Bagnato as your one stop shop to get your accessories sorted!

THE SHINER, THE BETTER WHEN IT COMES TO SHOES: There is no explanation needed when it comes to this point. As the saying goes, you can tell a lot about a person by his shoes.

MANNERS PLEASE: I’m sure your mum always taught you to be a gentleman.. well tonight’s the night boys to ensure you do her proud (not that you shouldn’t always act in this manner!).

YOUR DRINK OF CHOICE: You’ve gone to the effort of dressing up, so why not make sure you drink is from the top shelf. We suggest a strong whisky – an Old-Fashioned is our personal fave!

LADIES

IF THE MEN HAVE TO STICK TO TRADITION, YOU SHOULD TOO: The rule has always been long length gowns, so no short dresses ladies! We are always open to twisting the rules slightly, so why not be game and take a risk with a skirt and top combo, just like the Dion Lee look featured, or what about a pant suit? Boss lady alert!

UP YOUR JEWELLERY GAME: Minimal, fine jewellery is ideal for daytime wear, but when you have the opportunity to go all out for Black Tie, we take the approach of ‘all or nothing’. Oversized statement jewellery will take your look to whole new level! Our current favourites come from Linden Cook.

SHOES, SHOES, SHOES: Music to a ladies ear! Compliment your dress with a knock-out pair of heels. Whether they are strappy-heeled sandals, a seriously high pump, or a mule to add a little attitude, one style we suggest to avoid.. platforms, they’re a no-go!

IT ISN’T VISIBLE, BUT IT SURE LEAVES A LASTING IMPRESSION: It’s just as important as your outfit and accessories.. perfume! First impressions count, so make sure your scent says it all!

ENSURE YOU FEEL CONFIDENT WHEN IT COMES TO HAIR & MAKE-UP: Black Tie events don’t come around that often, so why not spoil yourself! If you’re not 100% confident when it comes to the beauty department you can always call on the professionals. We suggest doing a little research and screenshot a few images before hand, just so you have a rough idea of the look you’re after. A bold lip and slick polished hair is always a favourite of ours!

See how we take on the Black Tie look below..